Identify the main differences between the systems theory as formulated by David Easton and the functionalist theory as set out by Gabriel Almond. Show how each of these theories promote our understanding of comparative politics.

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Identify the main differences between the systems theory as formulated by David Easton and the functionalist theory as set out by Gabriel Almond. Show how each of these theories promote our understanding of comparative politics.

Comparative politics is a field of study that enables the systematic study and comparison of the world’s political systems. There are various theories associated with the studying and comparing of political systems all which have their strengths and weaknesses. The theories aim at identifying and exploring the various processes, patterns and regularities that are present in and amongst different political systems the world over. The two main theories which will be examined in this essay are the systems theory as proposed by David Easton and the functionalist theory which was developed by Gabriel Almond.

The systems theory was devised by David Easton as a response to the much criticized and outdated traditional political approaches of the mid 1950’s which mainly revolved around the concepts of ‘historicism and empiricism’ (Fuchs and Klingemaan, 2003). Easton has been renowned for viewing political processes as being dynamic within which stability is achieved via the establishment of equilibrium between the various inputs and outputs Susser, 1992:181-183). According to Easton, the political system can be defined as a system of interaction through which ‘authoritative allocations are made and implemented for a society’ (van der Eyden, 2003:264). Easton’s systems theory is mainly concerned with the idea of persistence. Political systems want to persist which therefore makes the issue of persistence the most inclusive and important objective for any political system (Ray, 2004:12).  Easton believes it is essential to examine the ways in which various political systems interact with the environment both within and outside of society in order to fully comprehend how political systems manage to maintain stability in a world full of change (Fuchs and Klingemaan, 2003). David Easton’s system’s theory has had a major impact on both the empirical and theoretical evolution and ‘subsequent development of the modern contemporary political landscape’ (Fuchs and Klingemann, 2003).

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Gabriel Almond introduced his functionalist theory in the 1970’s as an alternative approach to the study of comparative politics. His theory emphasizes the idea that political systems consist of ‘various institutions, political parties, the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government and bureaucratic machinery’ (London, 2008).  However, in order to adequately compare two political systems one must look further than just what institutions the two countries have in common and more so as to how the various institiutions within the countries function (Johari, 1982:77). Almond’s theory provides a mechanism through which a more accurate comparison of political systems can ...

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